Crew Member Shares Mental Health Struggle Following ‘Tsunami of Harassment Following Journey

A Vietnamese-American astronaut has publicly detailed her emotional downturn after facing a relentless barrage of criticism in the aftermath of a pioneering women-only spaceflight.

The 34-year-old activist – celebrated as a scientist and civil rights advocate – was part of the brief journey to space in the spring, which also carried high-profile passengers.

The high-profile flight was met with derision by some, who cited its expense and environmental footprint.

Reflecting on the situation, Ms. Nguyen, who became the pioneer for her community, stated the vicious response eclipsed her moment under an torrent of sexist abuse.

“I said the emotional pain might endure for years,” Ms. Nguyen stated in a public message, recalling a phone call from a mission companion in the period after the landing.

She characterized the news reports and online discourse as an unprecedented psychological assault.

“I did not leave Texas for a week, unable to get out of bed,” she confessed. “A month later… I had to hang up… because I could not speak through my tears.”

Overshadowed by Sexism

Ms. Nguyen, who has focused her career on female health science and conducted tests during the mission, said all her lifelong efforts – including her studies and astronaut training to the historic significance of her heritage – was drowned out under the avalanche of sexist vitriol.

She is most acclaimed for her tireless campaigning protecting the rights of sexual assault survivors.

Her own aspiration for spaceflight was put on hold after being assaulted during her time as a student, leading to a protracted legal battle.

A Path to Recovery

Now, eight months after achieving her goal, she noted the heaviest sorrow is beginning to clear, and she thanked the followers whose messages of encouragement helped save her. “You were my salvation,” she wrote.

She added that despite the negativity, considerable good had resulted from the mission, including spotlight on her scientific work and new advocacy opportunities.

The Historic Journey

The self-operating spacecraft launched from its launch site in April, carrying the all-female team on a brief suborbital flight that exceeded the internationally recognized boundary of space.

The group of women also included experts in multiple disciplines.

The company behind the mission is a commercial aerospace company founded by a prominent billionaire entrepreneur.